Modern Xiaomi smartphones, which are based on the shells MIUI or the new HyperOS, often receive new versions of the software. Although developers position this as an improvement in security and functionality, for many users, automatic booting becomes a headache.
Users often look for ways to disable Xiaomi updates to keep the current version stable, especially for older model owners who start to work slower after an update, or for enthusiasts who use specific settings that may be lost. In this article, we will discuss all known blocking methods, from simple menu settings to advanced system commands.
It’s worth noting that the update system is deeply integrated into the Android-based smartphone of the Chinese brand, and you won’t find a simple “Switch Off Forever” switch in the standard settings menu, but there are workarounds that allow you to effectively isolate the system component responsible for version checking and prevent unwanted installation of new packages.
Why you should turn off automatic updates on MIUI
The decision to limit background activity of system services is often driven by practical considerations: First, new versions of MIUI shells can be optimized for more powerful hardware, which on budget models of the Redmi or Poco series leads to a drop in performance. Second, some users prefer time-tested stability and do not want to risk data loss or bugs.
Blocking updates also helps save traffic and battery power. MIUI Updater's background process periodically calls the servers to check for new versions, which consumes device resources. For users with Internet-limited tariffs or older batteries, this can be a significant factor.
⚠️ Warning: By disabling the update system, you take responsibility for the security of the device. New versions often contain security patches that close the system's vulnerabilities. If you block updates, make sure you use strong passwords and don’t install apps from questionable sources.
Also, frequent updates can be annoying with notifications that appear at the wrong time. Constant reminders of the available new version can interfere with the comfortable use of the gadget.
Disconnection through system settings and applications Security
The first step to isolating the update system is to work with the standard smartphone settings. While this does not give a 100% guarantee, it significantly reduces the likelihood of an accidental download. Start by going to the Settings menu → About Phone → MIUI version. Here you need to find the three-dot button in the upper right corner and select the Update Settings.
In the menu that opens, you need to uncheck Auto Update, which will prevent the system from downloading and installing packages in the background on its own, but the process of checking for a new version may remain active.
Go to the Safety app (green zipper icon), scroll down to the Cleanup section and click on the settings gear in the top right corner. Find the Software Update section and disable all available options like Autoboot, Night Installation and Notifications. This will create the first major barrier for the system updater.
☑️ Basic setting of restrictions
It is important to note that these settings can be reset after restarting the device or manually running the update check. Therefore, this method is recommended to be used in conjunction with other, more radical measures, which will be described below. MIUI Updater is not activated without your knowledge.
Blocking through application settings and permissions
A more effective method is to directly restrict the system component that controls the updates, by going to the application management menu, by going to Settings → Applications → All Apps, and by looking for a system application called System Update (or MIUI bootloader), the icon usually looks like an orange rhombus.
Once you're in the app menu, select AutoStart and make sure it's turned off. Then go to Permissions or Other Permits. Your main goal is to deny access to the network. Find Wi-Fi and Mobile Internet (or Data Transfer) and set them to Disable.
Once the network access is banned, the app will not be able to physically contact Xiaomi servers to receive information about new versions, which is one of the most reliable software methods.
⚠️ Warning: If you try to stop a system application, you may be warned that it may affect other functions, and in this case, it is safe because we are deliberately restricting the functionality of the updater. Do not delete the application if you are unable to restore system components!
It is worth considering that in some versions of HyperOS or new builds of MIUI the interface may be slightly different, but the logic remains the same: you need to deprive the application of the right to use the Internet connection.
Using DNS to block update servers
One of the most elegant and effective ways to prevent Xiaomi updates is to block domain names of update servers at the DNS level. This method does not require superuser rights (Root) and works on most versions of Android.
To implement this method, go to Settings → Connection and sharing → Private DNS. Select the hostname of the provider DNS (In the field you need to enter the address of the ad blocker, which also covers the domains of updaters, or write specific rules if your DNS-provider allows this.
The most popular and proven solution is to use the AdGuard DNS service. In the host name field, type the following line:
dns.adguard.comSave the settings. Now all of it. DNS-Your device’s traffic will pass through AdGuard filters, which by default block known trackers and update servers, including the domains miui.com and xiaomi.com associated with updates.
| Parameter | Meaning/Action | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Private DNS (AdGuard) | Tall. |
| Required rights | No (standard) | - |
| Impact on advertising | Removes ads in the system | Side effect |
| Difficulty | Low. | Safe. |
List of domains to lock in the hosts file (for Root)
If you want to go back to standard settings or upgrade your phone, just return the Private DNS setting to Auto or Disconnected. This is a universal method that works not only on Xiaomi, but on other Android smartphones as well.
Advanced method: Disconnection via ADB
For users who are not afraid of the computer and want to get a guaranteed result, there is a method of disconnecting through the ADB debugging bridge (Android Debug Bridge), which allows you to “freeze” the system application, making it invisible to the operating system, without the need to obtain Root rights.
To start, activate the developer mode. Go to Settings → About Phone and quickly click 7 times on the MIUI Version field. Then in the Additional → For developers, turn on Debugging over USB. Connect your smartphone to your PC with a cable.
You have to start the ADB console on your computer and type in a command to find the service pack, usually called com.miui.updater, and the command to shut down completely is as follows:
adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.miui.updaterOnce you enter the command and click on Enter, the System Update app will be completely deactivated. It will disappear from the application list and stop consuming resources. The update icon in the settings menu may also stop responding or disappear.
⚠️ Note: Be very careful when typing commands ADB. Disabling the wrong system packages can cause an unstable interface or a cyclic reboot. Use the command only for the specified service pack.
To get it back if you want to upgrade in the future, use the command: adb shell pm enable com.miui.updater. This is the only way to completely "turn off" the component, not just limit its rights.
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Tip: Make sure to back up important data before using ADB. While the procedure is safe, any manipulation of system packages carries minimal but present risk.
Comparison of methods and selection of the optimal solution
After looking at all the options available, it's worth taking stock and choosing the best option for your situation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Simply turning off the settings is only a half-measure that is suitable for lazy users, but does not provide guarantees.
Using a private DNS is a middle ground, not only blocking updates, but also eliminating ads on the system without risking the stability of the phone, a recommended way for most users who don't want to get into the technical wilds.
The ADB method is suitable for advanced users who want to be 100% sure that nothing will happen, but it requires a PC and basic command line knowledge.
- 🛑 Basic level: Disabling auto-update in the menu (weak protection).
- 🛡️ Mid-level: Banning network permissions for Updater (good protection).
- 🌐 Optimal level: Set up a Private DNS (locks up servers + promotion).
- 💻 Maximum level: Disconnection through ADB (component-freeze).
Keep in mind that developers can change update mechanisms over time, and what worked on MIUI 12 may be different than the mechanisms in HyperOS, so it’s recommended to check periodically if the update was activated accidentally, especially after major system reboots.
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The combination of DNS and network permission prohibition provides the best balance between security, stability and ease of implementation for the average user.